Arrive in Bangalore, where a warm welcome awaits from your Lumle representative, who will accompany you throughout your journey. Transfer to your hotel in this lively metropolis, known as the Garden City, with its perfect blend of modernity and colonial charm. The city boasts lush parks, tree-lined avenues, and a bustling tech hub that highlights its contrasting facets.

Once you’ve checked in, take some time to relax and freshen up after your long journey. As the sun begins to set, enjoy your first evening in India. Dinner will be at your own cost, or you can opt for the hotel’s half-board dinner option, where a delightful array of South Indian dishes will welcome your palate.

After an early breakfast, begin your exploration of Bangalore, a city where history and modernity intertwine. Visit the iconic Vidhana Soudha, India’s largest civic building, with its striking neo-Dravidian architecture. Walk through the corridors of history at the Bull Temple, where a colossal granite Nandi bull watches over its devotees. End your morning at the Summer Palace of Tipu Sultan, a charming blend of Islamic and Hindu architectural influences, surrounded by manicured gardens.

Later, journey to Mysore, often referred to as the “City of Palaces.” En route, pause at the historic island of Srirangapatna, once the stronghold of Tipu Sultan, the "Tiger of Mysore." Walk amidst the ruins and temples of this island steeped in history, imagining the fierce battles fought here. Upon arrival in Mysore, check in to your hotel and enjoy an evening of leisure. Dinner will be at your own cost or available through an optional half-board upgrade.

Wake up to the charm of Mysore, a city renowned for its regal history and vibrant culture. Start your day with a visit to the Chamundeshwari Temple, perched atop the Chamundi Hills, offering sweeping views of the city. As you descend, delve into the grandeur of the Maharaja’s Palace, whose opulent interiors and exquisite royal wedding hall reflect an unparalleled architectural fusion.

In the afternoon, visit the Keshava Vishnu Temple in Somnathpur, an exceptional example of Hoysala artistry with its intricate carvings and symmetrical designs. Return to Mysore for a special evening experience as the Maharaja’s Palace comes alive with stunning illumination, casting a magical glow over the city. Dinner will be on your own, with the option to explore Mysore’s culinary scene or enjoy your hotel’s half-board offering.

Today, embark on a scenic drive to Ooty, ascending through the picturesque foothills of the Western Ghats. Pass through the dense forests of Bandipur National Park, where you might catch glimpses of deer, langurs, or even elephants along the way. Arrive in Ooty, a charming hill station known for its colonial-era heritage and lush landscapes.

Spend the evening exploring the Botanical Gardens, inspired by Kew Gardens in London, with its vibrant flowerbeds and towering eucalyptus trees. Visit the Gothic-style St. Stephen’s Church, a relic of the colonial past, before enjoying the crisp mountain air. Dinner is at your own cost, but the hotel’s restaurant offers a tempting half-board dinner upgrade with dishes that complement the serene ambiance of Ooty.

Board the historic Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a narrow-gauge UNESCO World Heritage train, for a mesmerising journey through the rolling hills and verdant tea plantations to Coonoor, a quaint plantation town. After a leisurely lunch in Coonoor, visit a tea factory and witness the intricate process of tea production. Learn about the region’s famous Nilgiri tea, from cultivation to brewing.

Return to Ooty in the afternoon to explore the lively local market or revisit the Botanical Gardens for a peaceful evening. Dinner will be on your own, with the option to upgrade to a half-board meal at your hotel.

After a relaxed morning, transfer to Coimbatore Station to board the Ernakulam Express, which will take you to the vibrant port city of Kochi. Enjoy the changing scenery as you travel through Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” before arriving in Kochi in the evening. Settle into your hotel and prepare to explore this historic trading hub. Dinner is at your own cost, or opt for the half-board option for a taste of Kerala’s renowned seafood and spices.

Begin your day with a guided tour of Kochi, a city that reflects centuries of cultural exchange. Visit the Mattancherry Palace, often referred to as the "Dutch Palace", with its exquisite murals depicting scenes from Indian mythology. Stroll through the lanes of the Jewish Quarter to reach the ancient Jewish Synagogue, a testament to the city’s rich multicultural heritage.

At Fort Cochin, marvel at the iconic Chinese fishing nets, a symbol of Kerala’s historic maritime connections. Later, visit the historic St. Francis Church, where Vasco da Gama was originally buried. In the evening, witness a captivating Kathakali dance performance, showcasing Kerala’s classical art form through dramatic expressions and vibrant costumes. Dinner will be at your own cost, or you may choose the half-board option to enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine.

Travel to Alleppey, where you will board a traditional thatched-roof Kettuvallam houseboat. Glide gently through the serene backwaters, a labyrinth of canals fringed with swaying coconut palms, lush rice fields, and tranquil villages. Watch life unfold along the banks as fishermen cast their nets, children play, and women prepare meals outside their homes.

Enjoy freshly prepared meals onboard as you relax in the tranquil surroundings. This evening, disembark for a guided walk through a traditional Keralan village, offering a glimpse into the harmonious and sustainable lifestyle of the locals. Dinner will be served onboard, showcasing the delicious flavours of Kerala’s backwater cuisine.

Leave the backwaters behind as you ascend into the lush, rolling hills of Periyar, renowned for its spice and tea plantations. En route, enjoy breathtaking views of verdant landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your hotel near the famous Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and take some time to unwind.

In the afternoon, visit a spice plantation, where you’ll learn about the cultivation and history of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper. The experience offers a sensory journey into the heart of Kerala’s spice trade. End the day with an engaging cooking demonstration at your hotel, followed by dinner at your own cost or as part of the half-board option.

Spend the morning at leisure or join an optional guided safari into the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Explore the lush forests in search of exotic wildlife, including elephants, giant squirrels, and vibrant bird species. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive tigers or leopards that call this sanctuary home.

In the afternoon, enjoy a serene boat ride on Periyar Lake, where sightings of elephants grazing along the water’s edge or colourful birds in flight add to the magical atmosphere. Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening. Dinner will be at your own cost, with an option to enjoy the hotel’s carefully curated half-board menu.

Descend from the hills of Kerala and journey into the plains of Tamil Nadu to reach Madurai, one of India’s oldest cities. Known as the “City of Temples,” Madurai is steeped in history and spirituality, with the magnificent Meenakshi Temple dominating its skyline.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring this bustling city at your leisure. Wander through vibrant markets filled with colourful textiles, aromatic spices, and unique handicrafts. Dinner will be at your own cost, with opportunities to sample traditional Tamil cuisine or opt for the hotel’s half-board menu.

Begin your day with a guided visit to the extraordinary Meenakshi Temple, an architectural masterpiece with its towering gopurams adorned with thousands of intricately painted sculptures. Explore the labyrinth of corridors, colonnades, and shrines as you witness the vibrant daily rituals and ceremonies that bring the temple to life.

In the afternoon, take a cycle-rickshaw ride through the narrow, bustling streets of Madurai’s Old City, soaking in its vibrant atmosphere. Return to your hotel in the evening. Dinner will be at your own cost or available as part of the half-board option.

Travel through the scenic landscapes of Tamil Nadu to reach Pondicherry, a unique coastal town that combines French colonial charm with South Indian culture. Stroll along the beachfront promenade, where pastel-coloured buildings and colonial-era landmarks create a picturesque setting.

Visit the Pondicherry Museum, which houses artefacts from the region’s rich history, and explore the French Quarter with its tree-lined streets and charming cafés. Dinner will be at your own cost, with options to dine at a local French-inspired bistro or enjoy your hotel’s half-board menu.

Today, journey to Mahabalipuram, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its ancient rock-cut temples and sculptures. Visit the iconic Shore Temple, set against the backdrop of the Bay of Bengal, and explore the intricately carved Pancha Rathas and the stunning Arjuna’s Penance bas-relief.

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the quaint coastal town. Dinner will be at your own cost, allowing you to enjoy fresh seafood or savour traditional Tamil dishes at your hotel.

Conclude your journey with a guided tour of Chennai, Tamil Nadu’s bustling capital. Visit the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, the historic San Thome Basilica, and the sprawling Marina Beach, where the city’s vibrant energy comes alive.

In the evening, transfer to Chennai Airport for your return flight home, carrying with you cherished memories of Southern India’s vibrant culture, serene landscapes, and warm hospitality.